Zoological Garden of Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka.

Situated 11 km from the Fort in Colombo, the National Zoological Gardens — more commonly known simply as the Zoo — occupies a beautifully landscaped area of approximately 25 acres at Dehiwala. Within its grounds, a rich collection of mammals, birds, reptiles and fish from all over the world live in settings designed to reflect their natural habitats, making it a compelling destination for families, nature enthusiasts and curious visitors of all ages.

More than 1.2 million visitors pass through the Zoo's gates every year, drawn by both the diversity of its collection and the tranquil, green surroundings that offer a welcome retreat from the bustle of urban life. Whether one comes for the wildlife, the landscaped walks or the daily performances, the gardens manage to cater to young and old alike.

A History Rooted in Trade and Conservation

The Zoo traces its origins to the late nineteen twenties, when John Hagenbeck — a member of the well-known show-business family from Hamburg, Germany — established what was initially a private menagerie at Dehiwala. Hagenbeck purchased around five acres of land at the beginning of the century to hold animals intended for export to Europe, where his brother Carl was among the biggest animal dealers of the time. The collection grew in popularity among local residents, and the land was gradually extended to eleven acres to accommodate the animals received.

The Government formally purchased the collection in July 1936, at which point it was officially recognised as a zoological garden. From those modest eleven acres, the grounds have steadily grown to their present extent of approximately 25 acres, and the methods of animal husbandry have evolved considerably over the decades into the naturalistic, modern approach visible today.

What the Gardens Offer

The Zoo's collection spans mammals, birds, reptiles and fish, with dedicated spaces that allow visitors to explore different animal worlds in a single visit. A walk-through Aviary offers an immersive encounter with birds, while the Reptilian section and the Butterfly Park introduce visitors to further remarkable corners of the animal kingdom.

One of the Zoo's most distinctive features is its aquarium, which is described as the only one of its kind in Asia and displays over 500 varieties of aquatic life. The breadth of species on show makes it a highlight for visitors who may not have encountered such a concentration of aquatic diversity before.

Daily elephant performances take place at 5.15 p.m., drawing large crowds and providing one of the more theatrical experiences on offer within the gardens. The Zoo is open daily from 8.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m., giving visitors the better part of a day to explore its many corners at a leisurely pace.

A Living Green Space in the City

Beyond its role as a wildlife collection, the National Zoological Gardens functions as one of Colombo's most valued green spaces. Its carefully maintained landscape provides a sense of calm that is increasingly rare in a growing city, and for many Sri Lankan families it represents an accessible and enriching outing that bridges the distance between urban daily life and the natural world.